David Coulthard is to head up Channel 4’s Formula 1 broadcast team, the television company has announced.

The free-to-air broadcaster takes over coverage of the world championship from the opening round in Australia in March.

And it has announced Whisper Films, co-owned by the Scot and ex-BBC presenter Jake Humphrey, has been awarded the production contract.

Channel 4 took a reputed £20m minority stake in the company last year.

“This is an exciting time for the sport and an exciting time for Whisper Films,” said the 13-time F1 winner.

Brit duo: Coulthard with world champion Lewis Hamilton (Image: BBC)

“The F1 world has been incredibly impressed with what Whisper has delivered over the last five years and Channel 4’s decision is testament to that.

“I’m looking forward to being part of an exciting new era for Formula 1, with Whisper Films and our proven level of creativity and innovation very much at the heart of that.”

The BBC ditched F1 and axed 60 staff days before Christmas despite promises months previously the coverage would continue for another season.

Head of Sport Barbara Slater said it was a necessary part of swingeing cuts forced on the corporation.

Ed Havard, Channel 4’s head of TV events and sport, said: “Whisper Films outlined an extremely impressive and exciting vision for their F1 coverage, with outstanding on and off screen talent as an integral part of their pitch.

“We are delighted that David Coulthard will be at the heart of Channel 4’s coverage and look forward to announcing the full presenting team in the coming weeks.”